Sai Gon Local Food With White Vespa Scooter Tour

Getting around Ho Chi Minh City on a scooter is perhaps the best way to truly feel its vibrant pulse — and this Vespa food tour offers exactly that. This private, three-hour adventure combines sightseeing, delicious street eats, and a glimpse into local life, all guided by a knowledgeable driver who doubles as your tour guide. It’s a fantastic way to see the city’s highlights without the usual touristy rush, while also indulging in some of the best Vietnamese dishes along the way.

What we love most about this experience? First, the personalized vibe makes it feel like an escorted local adventure rather than a generic tour. Second, the combination of scenic views and authentic food stops creates a well-rounded taste of Saigon. Lastly, the insightful guide adds stories and tips that only a local could share, making the experience richer and more memorable.

The only caveat? Since it’s a private tour, scheduling needs to be coordinated ahead of time, and the tour is best suited for those comfortable on a scooter and with moderate physical activity. If you’re looking for a relaxed, immersive way to explore Ho Chi Minh City’s culinary scene and sights, this tour hits the mark.

Overall, it’s ideal for travelers wanting to combine sightseeing with a culinary adventure, especially those eager for a personal touch and vibrant street scenes.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Ride a Vespa through busy streets, experiencing Ho Chi Minh like a local.
• Delicious Food Stops: Tastes include spring rolls, banh xeo, pho, and bun cha, served at local restaurants.
• Expert Guide: Your driver is also a knowledgeable guide, sharing insights about the city’s sights and cuisine.
• Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic city vistas from landmarks like Cau Ba Son Bridge and Landmark 81.
• Flexible & Private: The tour is customized to your dietary needs and is exclusive to your group.
• Value for Money: At $55 per person, it offers a well-rounded, intimate experience that covers food, sightseeing, and local culture.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Cau Ba Son Bridge: A Nighttime City Panorama

The tour kicks off with a ride across the Cau Ba Son bridge over the Saigon River. Here, you get a stunning view of downtown Saigon lit up at night. Standing on the bridge, taking in the illuminated skyline and the river traffic, feels like a special moment. Our guide, who is also a local expert, shared tidbits about the bridge’s history and its significance to the city’s development. This stop, clocking in at about 15 minutes, is free of admission fees and sets the tone for an evening of sights and bites.

Landmark 81 SkyView: A Modern Marvel & Tasty Pancake

Next, you’ll head close to Landmark 81, Vietnam’s tallest building. It’s easy to snap photos of this towering icon — perfect for a quick shot of Saigon’s modern skyline. Afterward, your guide takes you to a nearby local restaurant for bánh xèo — a crispy rice pancake filled with shrimp and bean sprouts. This dish, often a countryside staple, is a delightful savory treat and a highlight of Vietnamese street cuisine. This stop lasts about 50 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the food and capture photos.

Saigon Central Post Office: A French Colonial Landmark

A quick visit outside this 19th-century French-built post office offers a glimpse into the city’s colonial architecture. It’s a popular spot for photos and a reminder of Saigon’s layered history. If your visit is after 5:30 p.m., you’ll only see the exterior, but the building’s charm still shines through. The stop is brief, about 15 minutes, and free to wander around.

Ho Thi Ky Flower Market: A Colorful Local Hub

From vibrant blooms to bustling street vendors, the Ho Thi Ky flower market offers a sensory overload. Riding your Vespa through this long-standing market is an experience in itself — vibrant flowers, fragrant spices, and local vendors all create a lively atmosphere. The tour includes a stop at a local restaurant to indulge in spring rolls with noodles, another authentic taste of Saigon’s street food scene. This part lasts around 40 minutes, offering a peek into local commerce and culinary traditions.

Bui Vien Street: The Nightlife Heart

Your journey continues to Bui Vien street, known as the backpacker hub of Saigon. Though it’s lively and touristy, it’s also a good spot to soak in the vibrant nightlife, street performers, and open-air bars. This 15-minute stop is perfect for people-watching and understanding the city’s youthful, energetic side.

Nguyen Hue Street: A Cultural & Architectural Showcase

Finally, you’ll cruise along Nguyen Hue street, home to the city’s Opera House, the Ho Chi Minh City Committee building, and even some colonial-era apartments. As night falls, the area transforms into a lively scene with lights, street performers, and locals enjoying the cool evening. Your guide will share stories about these landmarks while you sip a complimentary drink, marveling at the city’s blend of old and new. This 45-minute segment wraps up the tour on a high note.

What the Tour Includes & What to Keep in Mind

Included in the $55 price is a private Vespa ride, three different Vietnamese dishes, a drink, and the guide’s expertise. You’ll visit six key points, each offering something unique — from panoramic views and historic landmarks to lively markets and vibrant street scenes.

What’s not included? Tips are optional but appreciated for the guide, especially since they go out of their way to create a personalized experience. The tour also accommodates dietary restrictions, so don’t hesitate to communicate your needs beforehand.

The experience lasts about three hours from start to finish, starting at the Open Smile Travel office in District 1, and ends back at the same spot. It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and comfortable on a scooter — a must-know for anyone with mobility concerns or a fear of two wheels.

Authenticity, Value, and Unique Highlights

One thing that stands out from reviews is the knowledgeable guide team, with many travelers noting how their driver shared interesting stories about Saigon’s sights and food culture. It’s rare to find such a personal connection during city tours, especially when riding on a scooter navigating busy streets.

Another highlight is the delicious street food served at each stop — from spring rolls to banh xeo, pho, and bun cha. The fact that the tour combines scenic views with genuine local dishes adds to its value, especially for travelers who want more than just a sightseeing checklist.

Travelers have also appreciated the stunning views from vantage points like Cau Ba Son and Landmark 81, which provide fantastic opportunities for photos and memorable moments. The route’s flexibility, taking in both historic landmarks and lively markets, makes it a well-rounded introduction to Saigon.

An added advantage is the small group feel and private tour setup, which ensures personalized attention and the ability to tailor stops to your interests or dietary needs.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This Vespa tour suits adventurous travelers who enjoy small-group experiences and want a deeper, more authentic feel of Ho Chi Minh City. It’s ideal for foodies eager to taste local dishes at their freshest and for those interested in city views and vibrant street scenes.

It’s also a great choice for first-time visitors looking to combine sightseeing with food without the hassle of navigating busy streets alone. Because it’s private, it offers flexibility for special requests or dietary restrictions, making it suitable for families or couples.

However, it’s best for travelers comfortable on a scooter and with moderate physical activity — especially since some stops involve walking or standing.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For anyone wanting a personalized, immersive experience of Ho Chi Minh City, this Vespa food tour is a fantastic choice. It offers a genuine taste of local life, stunning views, and delicious street food, all woven into a fun and intimate ride through the city’s most iconic spots.

The combination of knowledgeable guides, authentic dishes, and scenic stops makes it great value for money. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who want to explore beyond the usual tourist sights while indulging in Vietnam’s culinary delights. Plus, the flexible and private nature of the tour ensures a more tailored experience that can cater to dietary preferences and pace.

If you’re seeking a lively, tasty introduction to Saigon with a dash of fun and adventure, this Vespa tour ticks all those boxes.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
It’s generally suitable if children are comfortable riding on a scooter and with moderate physical activity, but it’s best to check if your kids are okay with riding or sitting on a Vespa for three hours.

Do I need to bring my own food or drinks?
No, all food and a drink are included in the tour price. You will enjoy multiple Vietnamese dishes at different stops.

Can the tour accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes, the tour can be tailored to your dietary needs, so be sure to communicate any restrictions when booking.

How long does each stop last?
Stops vary from 15 to 50 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy each site and meal without feeling rushed.

What sights will I see?
You’ll visit landmarks like Cau Ba Son bridge, Landmark 81, Saigon Post Office, flower markets, Bui Vien street, and Nguyen Hue walking street, among others.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private Vespa transportation is part of the experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for riding, and consider bringing a hat or sunglasses for sunny days. A light raincoat might be handy if the weather is unpredictable.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, since it’s outdoor-based, heavy rain may affect the experience. Check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

How do I book the tour?
You can book through the provided link and coordinate start times and any special requests directly with the tour provider, Open Smile Travel.

This Vespa tour offers a lively, authentic slice of Saigon that balances sightseeing with culinary discovery. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun way to explore the city, it’s a memorable ride that truly captures the spirit of Ho Chi Minh.